The best Santorini beaches
21.07.2023 - 07:41
/ roughguides.com
Santorini is a firm fixture in people's minds when it comes to Greek Island getaways, but it's not renowned for its beaches. Think Santorini and it's more likely that you'll picture white buildings with blue trims, luxury cliffside accommodation and those famous Santorini sunsets. And while it's true that you'll find better beaches on other Greek islands, that doesn't mean a visit to Santorini can't fulfil your shore-seeking desires.
The beaches here are volcanic and run the gamut of colours and types, from rocky coves to classic gold to red and even black sand. To help you plonk yourself on the right stretch of sand, here's our guide to the best beaches in Santorini.
The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Greece, your essential guide for visiting Greece.
Perissa Beach is a striking strip of black sand one of the best beaches in Santorini for lazy sunbathing. Situated at the base of Mesa Vouno Mountain, it’s easy to get here via bus from the main town of Fira (13km away). Perissa is always popular, and there are plenty of lounge chairs to accommodate all (expect to pay or buy your drinks and snacks from the same place in exchange).
If you're into watersports you can get your fix here, with everything from parasailing to wind surfing and more. Perissa has a range of beach cafes, bars and restaurants and attracts a lively crowd, from families to backpackers.
Travelling in Greece check out our list of the best things to do in Greece.
Arial view of Perissa Beach, Santorini © Ververidis Vasilis/Shutterstock
Santorini’s Perivolos Beach is essentially a continuation of Perissa, so it’s got a very similar look, with black sand plus deep and clear water. You'll find similar facilities too, from watersports to sun loungers. If anything, Perivolos has a younger vibe than Perissa, with plenty of nightlife on offer. Still, if you’re keen to find a quieter spot, that won’t be a problem, just head downstream from the main drag.
Set 200 m from Perissa Beach, Dona Beach Resort offers a garden, a terrace and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
Featuring a seasonal outdoor pool, Filoxenia Luxury Villas in Perissa offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking for guests who drive.
Set in Perissa, a few steps from Perissa Beach and 1.5 km from Perivolos Beach, Oasis's calm apartment with an amazing sea view offers free WiFi and air conditioning. The property features mountain views and is 9.4 km from the Archaeological Site of Akrotiri and 11 km from Santorini Port.
Perivolos Beach in Santorini © Josef Skacel/Shutterstock
With its vivid blue water enclosed by red rock formations and red-pink volcanic pebbles and sand, Santorini's Red Beach (or Kokkini Paralia in